Bloodhound Breed Information and Facts

The Bloodhound is one of the shortest-lived breeds, with a life span of only 6 to 10 years, but it is also the most dedicated, talented and heroic breeds. Second to none in the dog world, the scent hound’s sense of smell is more than impressive. Not all Bloodhounds are working dogs, and the breed also makes a wonderful family pet and companion. Just one look at that wrinkly face and you can fall in love instantly!

 

 

The Bloodhound, with its incredible sense of smell, was used since as early as the Middle Ages to track people, such as missing children and escaped criminals. It was, however, first bred as a hunting dog. Legend says that the Bloodhound was first bred at the Saint-Hubert Monastery in Belgium.

 

 

The Bloodhound weighs about 80 to 110 pounds, and is about 23 to 28 inches tall.

 

 

The Bloodhound’s short, shiny coat needs to be maintained well. A non-working Bloodhound should be bathed about once a month, although working Bloodhounds are typically bathed more often. Because the breed’s skin is rather sensitive, it is recommended that you use a gentle shampoo and massage. Do not let the Bloodhound air-dry. Dry it thoroughly and carefully, especially where the skin folds. About once a week, the Bloodhound’s coat should be brushed using a slicker brush.

 

 

The Bloodhound is even-tempered, gentle and affectionate. Its loving nature makes it a loyal and docile companion, never quarrelsome. In fact, the Bloodhound is so patient and mild-mannered that it would let young children pull at it or climb all over its body. The breed is also a very hardworking, independent and dedicated breed. When at work, the Bloodhound is tireless and always optimistic. 

 

 

Though intelligent and hardworking, the Bloodhound can be stubborn. Show your dog that you are the pack leader by taking control of the situation and displaying dominance. Proper training should tone down the Bloodhound’s stubbornness. The Bloodhound is great around children, although as with all pets, supervision and early socialization should not be overlooked. Note that due to the breed’s incredibly strong sense of smell, it can be easily distracted and have low attention span.

 

 

The Bloodhound’s tendency to be stubborn can make training a challenge. Try to make the process as enjoyable as possible for your dog, to keep him spirited and enthusiastic. Positive encouragement, such as praises and treats, is a must. Do not be heavy-handed or yell, as it will only discourage or even traumatize your dog. Be clear with your rules, and keep a firm but calm leadership style. To train the Bloodhound’s sense of smell, try something that is similar to hide-and-seek. For instance, a family member can hide and let the Bloodhound use his nose to find him. Introduce your Bloodhound to new experiences, sights, smells and sounds early, because socialization is essential to prevent your dog from becoming timid. Having visitors in the house can also help me get more comfortable with unfamiliar things.

 

 

The Bloodhound loves activities with people, and needs a long daily walk or hike. The breed would be very happy in the country where there is a lot of open space and nature. Because they get curious with new or strange smells, they can be distracted when taken on a walk and may want to go a different way. For this reason, make sure that your dog is never off the leash outside the fence. For the same reason, be sure to have a good fence around your yard that is not easy to jump over around your house so that your Bloodhound cannot go follow scents as he likes. Because of the Bloodhound’s digestive system, it should not be taken on an fast walk or an intense exercise right after a meal.